Peters survived serious injury thanks to a malfunctioning switchblade, the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office said Tuesday. The attempted stabbing was preceded by Fazeli making “disparaging remarks” about the Republican Party, according to the sheriff’s office.

Fazeli “approached the victim in an aggressive manner and made disparaging remarks about his political party and elected officials,” Alameda County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement, citing witness statements.

“During the incident, Fazeli is suspected to have pulled out a switchblade knife and attempted to stab the victim. The knife malfunctioned and the victim became involved in a physical struggle with Fazeli.”